Friday, December 23, 2011

Arzu Mediterranean Restaurant - Roanoke, VA


Just when I begin to feel like I have a good grasp on the international offerings in Roanoke, I run across Arzu, near the old city market.  As we were lucky enough to have our two older kids, Tripp and Brittany, in town for the holidays, I felt that a fine meal was in order which is exactly what Arzu had in store.  The dining room that we were seated in was quite elegant, with crystal chandeliers, high ceilings and sparse but tasteful decorations.  Once seated, I was struck by how quiet the dining area was, which was directly connected to the kitchen.  I could hear the Christmas music as it was played very softly.  A nice break from the hustle and noise of some restaurants.  The wait staff was very pleasant and knowledgable.  Following the entree, we were presented with a cart from which we could choose desserts.

For appetizers, we shared...
Yaprak Dolma Grape Leaves
Hot & Cold Mediterranean Tray which consisted of Baked oysters, Clams Casino, Yaprak Dolma, Borek (Filo dough stuffed with feta cheese), Kofta, Babaganush and Green Shell Mussels.

For entrees, we had...
Robin         Lamb Shank - cooked until literally falling off the bone in a tomato sauce
Dave          Veal Saltimbocca - topped with proscuitto and mozzarella in a Marsala sauce.
Brittany     Green Mussels - topped with lump crabmeat and finished with a white wine cream sauce.
Tripp         Chicken Francaise - in white wine and lemon sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese.
Luke          Shrimp Scampi - shrimp sauteed in butter, fresh lemon juice, white wine and garlic.

For dessert, Robin and Brittany had cappuccino, while Luke enjoyed a slice of Coconut cream pie and I had a absolutely delicious cream filled puff known as a Rum Baba.

We all thoroughly enjoyed our meals and I look forward to future visits. 


No comments:

Post a Comment